Trailer access eased on Harts Pass Road

Trailer restrictions on Harts Pass Road have been changed for the spring season to allow trailers of up to 20 feet in length, regardless of the number of axles, according to the U.S. Forest Service. In the past, the Forest Service allowed only single-axle trailers, but recently changed the restriction to trailers equal to or less than 20 feet in length, regardless of the number of axles. The length is measured from the hitch ball to the back end of the trailer.

From June 1 to Nov. 31 each year, trailers are prohibited on Harts Pass road beginning at the intersection with the road leading to the River Bend Campground and West Fork Methow Trailhead (5400060) to its end at Harts Pass.

“The style of trailers has changed over the years,” said Mike Liu, Methow Valley District Ranger, “and we’ve had many requests from snowmobilers to allow double-axle trailers on the road. If this spring goes well, and we don’t have any safety concerns, I’ll consider extending the change into future years.”

For more information, call the Methow Valley Ranger District office at 996-4000.